US7205066B1 - Structural element with rib-receiving member - Google Patents

Structural element with rib-receiving member Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US7205066B1
US7205066B1 US10/154,178 US15417802A US7205066B1 US 7205066 B1 US7205066 B1 US 7205066B1 US 15417802 A US15417802 A US 15417802A US 7205066 B1 US7205066 B1 US 7205066B1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
rib
receiving
structural element
sleeve
elements
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
US10/154,178
Inventor
Basil Hammi
Claude Hubert
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Rohr Inc
Original Assignee
Rohr Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Rohr Inc filed Critical Rohr Inc
Priority to US10/154,178 priority Critical patent/US7205066B1/en
Assigned to ROHR, INC. reassignment ROHR, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HAMMI, BASIL
Assigned to ROHR, INC. reassignment ROHR, INC. CORRECTED RECORDATION FORM COVER SHEET TO ADD ASSIGNOR'S NAME, PREVIOULSY RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 013270/0476 (ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNOR'S INTEREST) Assignors: HAMMI, BASIL, HUBERT, CLAUDE
Priority to EP03252085A priority patent/EP1365081B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US7205066B1 publication Critical patent/US7205066B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64C—AEROPLANES; HELICOPTERS
    • B64C1/00—Fuselages; Constructional features common to fuselages, wings, stabilising surfaces or the like
    • B64C1/06—Frames; Stringers; Longerons ; Fuselage sections
    • B64C1/064—Stringers; Longerons
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
    • B29C65/48—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor using adhesives, i.e. using supplementary joining material; solvent bonding
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/40—General aspects of joining substantially flat articles, e.g. plates, sheets or web-like materials; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles; Joining single elements to substantially flat surfaces
    • B29C66/41—Joining substantially flat articles ; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles
    • B29C66/43—Joining a relatively small portion of the surface of said articles
    • B29C66/434—Joining substantially flat articles for forming corner connections, fork connections or cross connections
    • B29C66/4344—Joining substantially flat articles for forming fork connections, e.g. for making Y-shaped pieces
    • B29C66/43441—Joining substantially flat articles for forming fork connections, e.g. for making Y-shaped pieces with two right angles, e.g. for making T-shaped pieces, H-shaped pieces
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
    • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
    • B29C66/72—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the structure of the material of the parts to be joined
    • B29C66/721—Fibre-reinforced materials
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64C—AEROPLANES; HELICOPTERS
    • B64C1/00—Fuselages; Constructional features common to fuselages, wings, stabilising surfaces or the like
    • B64C2001/0054—Fuselage structures substantially made from particular materials
    • B64C2001/0072—Fuselage structures substantially made from particular materials from composite materials
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64C—AEROPLANES; HELICOPTERS
    • B64C1/00—Fuselages; Constructional features common to fuselages, wings, stabilising surfaces or the like
    • B64C2001/0054—Fuselage structures substantially made from particular materials
    • B64C2001/0081—Fuselage structures substantially made from particular materials from metallic materials
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
    • Y02T50/00—Aeronautics or air transport
    • Y02T50/40—Weight reduction
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/17—Three or more coplanar interfitted sections with securing means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24174—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including sheet or component perpendicular to plane of web or sheet
    • Y10T428/24182—Inward from edge of web or sheet
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24273—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including aperture
    • Y10T428/24281—Struck out portion type
    • Y10T428/24289—Embedded or interlocked
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24273—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including aperture
    • Y10T428/24322—Composite web or sheet
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24479—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including variation in thickness
    • Y10T428/24521—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including variation in thickness with component conforming to contour of nonplanar surface
    • Y10T428/24537—Parallel ribs and/or grooves
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
    • Y10T428/24479—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including variation in thickness
    • Y10T428/2457—Parallel ribs and/or grooves

Definitions

  • the structural element comprises a first member such as a face sheet, and at least one rib-receiving member integral to the first member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises either: (i) a plurality of rib-receiving elements for receiving the rib member with at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements; or (ii) a rib-receiving sleeve for receiving the rib member.
  • Aircraft components including intake ducts, flooring and wing sections are often made of honeycomb material which is lightweight, rigid and capable of being fabricated in many shapes.
  • honeycomb material may be expensive, in terms of life cycle costs, and may require extensive maintenance and repair. In some circumstances, it is also not readily adaptable to the attachment of other components. This drawback may be overcome by reinforcing elements within the honeycomb, but this typically involves adding to the weight of the structural element and thus reducing the advantage of the low weight of the honeycomb material.
  • honeycomb core structures suffer from susceptibility to moisture intrusion resulting from their open-cell construction. Even non-visible face sheet damage can create a path for moisture intrusion.
  • moisture condenses on the outside of an aircraft wing skin fabricated with honeycomb core panels the pressure differential between the sandwich interior and the atmosphere during descent can force moisture into the honeycomb core.
  • Repeated freeze/thaw cycles are also known to cause corrosion of aluminum honeycomb cores, and delamination of the face sheet from the core. Repair complications due to honeycomb core water intrusion represent an additional difficulty.
  • honeycomb core structures are also problems with honeycomb core structures.
  • undetected damage is often a component of honeycomb structures.
  • cracked skins due to the metal foil
  • poor radar transparency due to the metal foil
  • thermal insulation due to the conductivity of aluminum foil which is often a component of honeycomb structures.
  • structural elements which comprise two outer structures and an inner structure interposed between the two outer structures.
  • the inner structure includes lateral and longitudinal ribs.
  • the ribs may be bonded to the outer structures.
  • the structures may be joined together by interlocking ribs and grooves.
  • the grooves are typically formed on the inner surfaces of the outer structures to mate with the ribs of the inner structures.
  • the inner structures may be formed from metal or composite material
  • the outer structures are generally formed from metal with grooves machined into the metal structures. As a result, since the metal is typically more dense and less stiff than the composite material, the overall weight of the structural element increases while its stiffness is reduced.
  • the structural element according to the present invention permits the elimination of extensive assembly tooling and reduced part count.
  • the structural element of this invention also provides high strength, low weight, and improved stiffness.
  • the structural element of this invention does not comprise small cellular areas that can trap moisture.
  • the structure lends itself to direct venting and drainage systems to eliminate the accumulation of moisture.
  • the structure does not have dissimilar metallic materials in the construction that can lead to galvanic corrosion.
  • the structure's durability is also enhanced by several features.
  • the bonded joint is loaded in double shear and hence reduces any tendency for peel stresses.
  • the rib-receiving member also known as a “build-up”) provides a reinforced area for receiving any impact loads directly imparted to the rib member.
  • FIG. 1 shows the assembled structural element of one embodiment of this invention.
  • FIGS. 2A and 2B show a top view and a side view of one embodiment of the rib-receiving member.
  • FIG. 3 shows the structural details of the members of the structural element of one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 4 shows the assembled structural element of another embodiment of this invention.
  • FIG. 4A shows layers of the assembled structural element of the embodiment of FIG. 4 .
  • FIGS. 5A and 5B show a structure formed by engaging a rib member with two rib-receiving members.
  • FIG. 6 shows a top view of a structure formed by engaging a rib member with four rib-receiving members.
  • FIG. 1 shows the assembled structural element of one embodiment of this invention.
  • the composite structure comprises: a first member or face sheet 12 having an inner surface 4 and an outer surface 2 ; a rib-receiving member 5 ; a rib member 3 having a first end 34 , a second end 32 , a first edge 36 and a second edge 38 .
  • the first member may be, for example, a face sheet which is employed in an aerospace structure such as an aircraft wing or an internal aerospace structure such as a strut or the like.
  • the first member may be fabricated from metal or a composite material, but is preferably fabricated from a composite material, as is further described herein.
  • a second member which is similar to the first member may receive second end 32 of rib member 3 by using a second rib-receiving member, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 5A and 5B .
  • Rib-receiving member 5 comprises at least one cover sheet 16 which has an engagement opening therein for receiving first end 34 of rib member 3 .
  • Rib-receiving member 5 additionally comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements (shown as 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 ) also having engagement openings (e.g. grooves) therein for receiving first end 34 of rib member 3 .
  • the cover sheet or sheets and the elements of rib-receiving member 5 are preferably made from a composite material which is machinable. In another embodiment, the rib-receiving elements and cover sheets may also be fabricated from metal.
  • a plurality of anchoring elements 100 interconnect the rib-receiving elements.
  • the anchoring elements 100 are preferably graphite pins known as Z-fibersTM or “Z-pins” available, for example, from Aztex, Inc., as will be understood by those skilled in the art.
  • the composite material which may be used for the rib-receiving elements, cover sheets and first member is an epoxy resin reinforced with graphite fibers. More preferably, but not necessarily, the composite material is fabricated from a toughened epoxy resin system such as 977-3 available from Cytec Fiberite and a high strength and modulus graphite fiber system such as IM-7 available from Hexcell.
  • a toughened epoxy resin system such as 977-3 available from Cytec Fiberite
  • IM-7 high strength and modulus graphite fiber system
  • other composite materials which may be used include, but are not limited to, TORAYCA T700S-12K-PW/3900-2 fabric or TORAYCA T800H-/3900-2 tape (both available from Toray). These materials are particularly suitable for use because of their high structural strength and stiffness.
  • element 22 forms the base of the rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 , with rib-receiving elements 24 , 26 , and 28 stacked sequentially upon element 22 .
  • the cover sheet 16 (and additional cover sheets, if employed) are shaped to permit stacking of the rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 under the cover sheet or sheets.
  • second end 32 of rib member 3 may also engage another rib-receiving member (not shown in FIG. 1 ) which is integral to a second member or face sheet (not shown in FIG. 1 ).
  • first edge 36 and second edge 38 may each also be engaged to other rib-receiving members (not shown in FIG. 1 ) which are in turn integral to third and fourth members or face sheets (not shown in FIG. 1 ).
  • cover sheets 14 and 16 are raised over rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 of the rib-receiving members.
  • rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 of the rib-receiving members.
  • cover sheets 14 and 16 are raised over rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 of the rib-receiving members.
  • rib-receiving elements may be adjoined to one another via adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means.
  • cover sheets 16 and 14 are raised over the elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 of the rib-receiving member, the cover sheets assume a shape which is approximately trapezoidal to minimize the spaces between cover sheet 14 and each of the elements.
  • element 22 forms the base of the rib-receiving member and resides on an optional base plate 13 which in turn resides on inner surface 4 of first member 12 .
  • the base plate 13 may also be fabricated from metal or a composite material.
  • the rib-receiving elements, base plate, first member and cover sheet or sheets are all fabricated from a composite material, and the first member, rib-receiving elements and cover sheet or sheets are arranged as depicted, for example, in FIG. 2B and cocured to form the integrated combination of first member or face sheet 12 and rib-receiving member 5 (which in this embodiment is made up of base plate 13 , rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 having opening 20 therein, and cover sheets 14 and 16 having opening 20 therein), as depicted in FIG. 2B .
  • cocuring means joining two or more uncured composite layers or components (e.g.
  • curing temperatures are typically in the range of 250–350° F. and the autoclave pressure is in the range of 85–100 psi held for approximately 6–7 hours, with the vacuum bag and components therein at vacuum.
  • high temperature composite systems may be employed which typically require curing temperatures in the range of 500–700° F. and pressures of 200–300 psi.
  • cocuring is typically carried out by vacuum bagging the assembly of first member or face sheet 12 and rib-receiving member 5 and placing the assembly inside an autoclave where pressure and elevated temperatures are introduced.
  • the pressure and temperatures are increased incrementally in a prescribed manner to effect a curing of the rib-receiving member and first member or face sheet into an integrated assembly.
  • Use of cocuring to form the integrated assembly of the first member, rib-receiving elements and cover sheet or sheets advantageously avoids the necessity and expense associated with assembly tooling, which would otherwise be necessary to properly align and adjoin the first member, rib-receiving elements and cover sheet or sheets.
  • each of rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 and 28 may be adjoined to one another via adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means.
  • a paste adhesive such as EA 9394 available from Loctite Aerospace, FM 400 available from Cytec Fiberite or another suitable adhesive known to those skilled in the art may be used.
  • rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 and 28 may be assisted in their load carrying capability by the resistance provided by cover sheet 16 .
  • Cover sheet 16 (or additional cover sheets, if employed) may be adjoined to inner surface 4 of first member 12 via an adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means.
  • Base plate 13 may also be affixed to inner surface 4 of first member 12 via an adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means.
  • the upper surface 15 of base plate 13 may also be affixed to element 22 using an adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means.
  • the rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 of the rib receiving member and cover sheets 14 and 16 of the rib-receiving member may be made from a composite or other material which may be machined, formed or otherwise shaped. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 2B , an opening such as a groove 20 may be provided into the cover sheets 14 and 16 and into the rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 .
  • the groove 20 is suitably shaped and dimensioned to engage rib member 3 (as shown in FIG. 1 ) by aligning rib member 3 with groove 20 and inserting rib member 3 into the groove to form the composite structure shown in FIG. 1 .
  • the groove-rib engagement provides structural support between the rib-receiving member 5 and rib member 3 .
  • Groove 20 is sized and arranged to receive rib member 3 .
  • a film adhesive, paste adhesive or other suitable adhesive is interposed between rib member 3 and groove 20 for adhering the exterior surface of rib member 3 to the rib-receiving member comprising groove 20 .
  • the rib member 3 and the integrated rib-receiving assembly 10 (which is the combination of first member or face sheet 12 and rib-receiving member 5 ) are preferably not cocured together, because such cocuring would require extensive curing and assembly tooling.
  • the present invention advantageously reduces the necessity for such tooling, which is expensive and time-consuming to use.
  • a solder or brazing material may also be used if the components are fabricated from metallic materials.
  • rib member 3 has a rectangular shaped cross-section and preferably has a width slightly smaller than the width of the groove 20 so that the rib may be inserted into the groove while at the same time enabling the rib member 3 to be in contact with the inner surfaces of the groove by means of a joining medium (i.e. adhesive, solder or brazing material).
  • a joining medium i.e. adhesive, solder or brazing material.
  • the rib member and groove are arranged to form an enclosure which is approximately rectangular in shape.
  • Anchoring elements 100 which interconnect the rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 and first member 12 are also shown. As previously discussed, in the embodiment of this invention in which the rib-receiving elements are made of a composite material, the anchoring elements are preferably graphite pins.
  • rib member 3 comprises a plurality of rib elements 301 , 302 , 303 , 304 , 305 , 306 , 307 , and 308 , and each of the elements 22 , 24 , 26 and 28 of the rib-receiving member 5 comprise a plurality of layers.
  • rib-receiving member elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 respectively comprise layers 221 – 228 , 241 – 248 , 261 – 268 and 281 – 288 , as shown.
  • the rib elements are preferably each fabricated from a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, although in other embodiments the rib elements may be fabricated from metal. If the rib elements are composite materials such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, joining of the rib elements may be achieved by curing the individual rib elements using the curing techniques previously described with respect to the cocuring of the first member or face sheet and rib-receiving member. The rib elements, if fabricated from a composite material, should be cured to form the rib member separately from the cocuring step previously described with respect to fabrication of the integrated first member or face sheet and the rib-receiving member.
  • element 22 resides on base plate 13 , which in turn resides on the inner face 4 of member 12 .
  • cover sheet 14 resides in part on the inner face 4 of member 12
  • cover sheet 14 also resides upon, in part, the upper face of base plate 13 and also contacts each of rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 , as shown.
  • Cover sheet 16 resides in part on the inner face 4 of member 12 .
  • Cover sheet 16 also resides in part on the upper surface of cover sheet 14 as shown.
  • Anchoring elements 301 interconnect rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 of the rib-receiving member 5 , thereby preventing peeling away of the elements of the rib-receiving member.
  • the anchoring elements 301 do not extend into the cover plates 16 and 14 .
  • the surfaces of all of the rib elements and rib-receiving elements are preferably smooth.
  • the term smooth is intended to mean that the surfaces are substantially free of uneven regions which interfere with the bonding of the elements.
  • the outer surfaces of the rib-receiving elements 22 , 24 , 26 , and 28 have no interlocking formations machined into them.
  • Rib 3 is preferably affixed to the rib-receiving assembly using an adhesive as previously described. This advantageously avoids cocuring of the rib and rib-receiving assembly and thereby avoids the necessity for bagging and autoclave curing of the rib and rib-receiving assembly.
  • the adhesives used may be cured at an oven temperature with moderate clamping pressure to the entire assembly.
  • the assembly may then be ultrasonically inspected and X-rayed to ensure that proper bonding of the rib to the rib-receiving assembly is achieved.
  • FIG. 4 Another embodiment of the composite structure is illustrated by referring to FIG. 4 herein.
  • the embodiment of FIG. 4 comprises a first member or face sheet 40 which comprises an outer surface 41 , an inner surface 43 , and a plurality of layers 410 – 419 therebetween. Layers 410 – 419 are shown in greater detail in FIG. 4A .
  • the layers 410 – 419 are a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, and layers 410 – 419 are joined together by curing.
  • the embodiment of FIG. 4 also comprises a rib-receiving member engaged to the inner surface 43 of the first member or face sheet 40 .
  • the rib-receiving member comprises a rib-receiving sleeve 48 (shown here as a substantially U-shaped element).
  • the sleeve 48 has an open end for receiving the first end 64 of the rib member 6 , which is shown as a single member in FIG. 4 and which may be made up of a plurality of rib elements as described above with respect to FIG. 3 .
  • the sleeve 48 also has a closed curved end 49 .
  • First and second sleeve support members 46 and 47 are disposed on each side of sleeve 48 .
  • the first and second sleeve support members comprise outer layers 461 and 471 , respectively, and preferably one or more inner layers 462 , 463 , 472 , and 473 .
  • a plurality of anchoring elements 501 interconnect individual layers 410 – 419 of the first member.
  • the first member or face sheet, the rib-receiving sleeve and the first and second sleeve support members as well as the rib member may be made from a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, which is penetrable by the anchoring elements 501 .
  • the first and second sleeve support members 46 and 47 respectively comprising outer layers 461 and 471 and the inner layers 462 , 463 , 472 , and 473 , respectively are substantially symmetrically disposed on opposite sides of the substantially U-shaped rib-receiving sleeve 48 .
  • Inner layers 463 and 473 of the first and second sleeve support members contact the substantially U-shaped rib-receiving sleeve 48 , as shown in FIG. 4 .
  • Each of the substantially symmetrically disposed layers 461 , 462 , 463 , 471 , 472 , and 473 is preferably formed by using a tool to provide curvature, as will be well understood by those skilled in the art.
  • the rib-receiving sleeve 48 comprises substantially vertical ends 503 and 511 .
  • the layers 461 , 462 , 463 , 471 , 472 , and 473 also comprise substantially vertical ends.
  • ends 503 and 511 are situated at substantially the same vertical height as the substantially vertical ends of layers 461 , 462 , 463 , 471 , 472 , and 473 .
  • first member or face sheet 40 , sleeve support members 46 and 47 , and rib-receiving sleeve 48 are cocured as previously described to form a rib-receiving assembly, where all of these individual components are made of a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described.
  • the curved portion 49 and the substantially vertical walls 50 and 51 define a substantially U-shaped groove.
  • a rib member 6 which may be formed of a composite material or layers of a composite material is aligned with the substantially U-shaped groove. First end 64 of the rib member is inserted into the groove. Preferably, rib member 6 has a height greater than the depth of the groove, so that, as shown in FIG. 1 , second end 62 of the rib member projects out of the rib-receiving member.
  • the groove-rib engagement provides structural support between the rib-receiving member and the rib member 6 .
  • the groove of U-shaped sleeve 48 is sized and arranged to receive rib member 6 .
  • a film adhesive, paste adhesive or other suitable adhesive may be interposed between rib member 6 and the groove for adhering the rib member 6 to the rib-receiving member comprising U-shaped sleeve 48 .
  • FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate side views of this embodiment of the invention.
  • a first rib-receiving assembly 404 as described above with respect to any of FIGS. 1–4 and the description provided herein comprises a first member 412 and a rib-receiving member 405
  • a second rib-receiving assembly 504 as described above with respect to any of FIGS. 1–4 and the description provided herein comprises a second member 512 and a rib-receiving member 505 .
  • each rib-receiving member 405 , 505 comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements (but not shown in detail in FIGS. 5A and 5B ) as previously described, and each rib receiving member has machined or integrally formed grooves 40 and 50 therein, respectively.
  • each of grooves 40 and 50 is aligned with a rib member 6 having ends 62 and 64 and edges 66 and 68 .
  • End 62 is inserted into groove 40 to form a structural element, in accordance with the illustrations in FIGS. 1–4 .
  • End 64 is then inserted into groove 50 to complete the structure.
  • rib ends 62 and 64 are engaged to first and second rib-receiving assemblies 404 and 504 , respectively, as shown.
  • rib edge 66 may be engaged to a third rib-receiving assembly (not shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B ) and rib edge 68 may be engaged to a fourth rib-receiving assembly (not shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B ).
  • the third and fourth rib-receiving assemblies have the structure of first and second rib-receiving assemblies 404 and 504 .
  • FIG. 6 shows a forward view from point “A” in FIG.
  • rib 6 has rib ends 62 and 64 and rib edges 66 and 68 (all shown as hidden edges).
  • Rib end 62 engages rib receiving member 405 which is integral to first member or face sheet 412 .
  • Rib end 64 engages rib receiving member 505 which is integral to second member or face sheet 512 .
  • Rib edge 66 engages rib receiving member 605 which is integral to third member or face sheet 612 .
  • Rib edge 68 engages rib receiving member 705 which is integral to fourth member or face sheet 712 .
  • the rib-receiving assemblies 404 , 504 , 604 , and 704 as depicted in FIG. 6 may be of the types depicted in any of FIGS. 1–5 described herein.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Laminated Bodies (AREA)
  • Rod-Shaped Construction Members (AREA)
  • Joining Of Building Structures In Genera (AREA)

Abstract

A structural element for use in aerospace applications such as a structural element suitable as an aircraft component is described. In one embodiment of the invention, the composite structure comprises: (a) at least one member having an inner surface and an outer surface; (b) a rib having a first end and a second end; (c) a rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the at least one member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements and openings therein for receiving the first end of the rib and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the first end of the rib; and (d) at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements. In another embodiment of the invention, the composite structure comprises: (a) at least one member having an inner surface and an outer surface; (b) a rib having a first end and a second end; and (c) a rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the at least one member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises a rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the sleeve and interconnect the sleeve to the inner face of the at least one member.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a structural element useful in aerospace applications, as well as a method of preparing such a structural element for use in aerospace applications, such as a structural element suitable as an aircraft component. In particular, in the present invention the structural element comprises a first member such as a face sheet, and at least one rib-receiving member integral to the first member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises either: (i) a plurality of rib-receiving elements for receiving the rib member with at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements; or (ii) a rib-receiving sleeve for receiving the rib member.
2. Background Information
Aircraft components including intake ducts, flooring and wing sections are often made of honeycomb material which is lightweight, rigid and capable of being fabricated in many shapes. Depending on the particular application, the use of such honeycomb material may be expensive, in terms of life cycle costs, and may require extensive maintenance and repair. In some circumstances, it is also not readily adaptable to the attachment of other components. This drawback may be overcome by reinforcing elements within the honeycomb, but this typically involves adding to the weight of the structural element and thus reducing the advantage of the low weight of the honeycomb material.
Furthermore, honeycomb core structures suffer from susceptibility to moisture intrusion resulting from their open-cell construction. Even non-visible face sheet damage can create a path for moisture intrusion. When moisture condenses on the outside of an aircraft wing skin fabricated with honeycomb core panels, the pressure differential between the sandwich interior and the atmosphere during descent can force moisture into the honeycomb core. Repeated freeze/thaw cycles are also known to cause corrosion of aluminum honeycomb cores, and delamination of the face sheet from the core. Repair complications due to honeycomb core water intrusion represent an additional difficulty.
Other problems with honeycomb core structures are the presence of undetected damage, cracked skins, poor radar transparency due to the metal foil and poor thermal insulation due to the conductivity of aluminum foil which is often a component of honeycomb structures.
In U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,273,806, 5,487,930, and 5,508,085, structural elements are disclosed which comprise two outer structures and an inner structure interposed between the two outer structures. The inner structure includes lateral and longitudinal ribs. The ribs may be bonded to the outer structures. Alternatively, the structures may be joined together by interlocking ribs and grooves. The grooves are typically formed on the inner surfaces of the outer structures to mate with the ribs of the inner structures. While the inner structures may be formed from metal or composite material, the outer structures are generally formed from metal with grooves machined into the metal structures. As a result, since the metal is typically more dense and less stiff than the composite material, the overall weight of the structural element increases while its stiffness is reduced.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to provide a structural element comprising:
    • (a) a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) a rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the first end of the rib member, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements.
It is another object of this invention to provide a structural element comprising:
    • (a) a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) a first rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the first end of the rib member, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements.
    • (d) a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (e) a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the second end of the rib member, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements.
It is another object of this invention to provide a structural element comprising:
    • (a) a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) a first rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the first end of the rib member, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements;
    • (d) a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (e) a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the second end of the rib member, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements;
    • (f) a third member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (g) a third rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the third member, wherein the third rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first edge of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the first edge of the rib member, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements;
    • (h) a fourth member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (i) a fourth rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the fourth member, wherein the fourth rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second edge of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the second edge of the rib member, and at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a method of preparation of the structural element of the invention, wherein the method comprises:
    • (a) providing a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) providing a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) engaging the first end of the rib member to a rib-receiving member engaged to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein which receive the first end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein which receives the first end of the rib member; and
    • (d) interconnecting the rib-receiving elements by providing at least one anchoring element which is connectively engaged to the rib-receiving elements.
It is another object of this invention to provide a method for forming a structural element comprising:
    • (a) providing a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) providing a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) engaging a first rib-receiving member to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the first end of the rib member;
    • (d) interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the first rib-receiving member by providing at least one anchoring element which is connectively engaged to the rib-receiving element;
    • (e) providing a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (f) engaging a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the second end of the rib member; and
    • (g) interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the second rib-receiving member by providing at least one anchoring element which is connectively engaged to the rib-receiving element.
It is another object of this invention to provide a method for forming a structural element comprising:
    • (a) providing a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) providing a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) engaging a first rib-receiving member to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having a groove therein which receives the first end of the rib member;
    • (d) interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the first rib-receiving member by providing at least one anchoring element which is connectively engaged to the rib-receiving element;
    • (e) providing a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (f) engaging a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second end of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the second end of the rib member;
    • (g) interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the second rib-receiving member by providing at least one anchoring element which is connectively engaged to the rib-receiving element;
    • (h) providing a third member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (i) engaging a third rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the third member, wherein the third rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first edge of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the first edge of the rib member;
    • (j) interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the third rib-receiving member by providing at least one anchoring element which is connectively engaged to the rib-receiving element;
    • (k) providing a fourth member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (l) engaging a fourth rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the fourth member, wherein the fourth rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second edge of the rib member and at least one cover sheet having an opening therein for receiving the second edge of the rib member; and
    • (m) interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the fourth rib-receiving member by providing at least one anchoring element which is connectively engaged to the rib-receiving element.
It is another object of this invention to provide a structural element comprising:
    • (a) a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (c) a rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises a rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, a first sleeve support member and a second sleeve support member, wherein the first and second sleeve support members interconnect the rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the first member.
It is another object of this invention to provide a structural element comprising:
    • (a) a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) a first rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a first rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the first rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the first rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the first member;
    • (d) a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (e) a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a second rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the second rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the second rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the second member.
It is another object of this invention to provide a structural element comprising:
    • (a) a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) a first rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a first rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the first rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the first rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the first member;
    • (d) a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (e) a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a second rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the second rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the second rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the second member;
    • (f) a third member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (g) a third rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the third member, wherein the third rib-receiving member comprises a third rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the third rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the third rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the third member;
    • (h) a fourth member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (i) a fourth rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the fourth member, wherein the fourth rib-receiving member comprises a fourth rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the fourth rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the fourth rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the fourth member.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a method of preparation of the structural element of the invention, the method comprising:
    • (a) providing a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) providing a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (c) engaging the first end of the rib member to a rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the rib-receiving member comprises a rib-receiving sleeve having an open first end for receiving the rib member and a closed second end, a first sleeve support member and a second sleeve support member wherein the first and second sleeve support members interconnect the sleeve to the inner face of the first member.
It is another object of this invention to provide a method for forming a structural element comprising:
    • (a) providing a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) providing a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) engaging a first rib-receiving member to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a first rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the first rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the first rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the first member;
    • (d) providing a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (e) engaging a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a second rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the second rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the second rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the second member.
It is another object of this invention to provide a method for forming a structural element comprising:
    • (a) providing a rib member having a first end and a second end;
    • (b) providing a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (c) engaging a first rib-receiving member to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a first rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the first rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the first rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the first member;
    • (d) providing a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (e) engaging a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a second rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the second rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the second rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the second member;
    • (f) providing a third member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
    • (g) engaging a third rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the third member, wherein the third rib-receiving member comprises a third rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the third rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the third rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the third member;
    • (h) providing a fourth member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
    • (i) engaging a fourth rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the fourth member, wherein the fourth rib-receiving member comprises a fourth rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are disposed on opposite sides of the fourth rib-receiving sleeve and interconnect the fourth rib-receiving sleeve to the inner face of the fourth member.
The structural element according to the present invention permits the elimination of extensive assembly tooling and reduced part count. The structural element of this invention also provides high strength, low weight, and improved stiffness.
Unlike honeycomb structures, the structural element of this invention does not comprise small cellular areas that can trap moisture. In fact, the structure lends itself to direct venting and drainage systems to eliminate the accumulation of moisture. In addition, the structure does not have dissimilar metallic materials in the construction that can lead to galvanic corrosion.
The structure's durability is also enhanced by several features. The bonded joint is loaded in double shear and hence reduces any tendency for peel stresses. The rib-receiving member (also known as a “build-up”) provides a reinforced area for receiving any impact loads directly imparted to the rib member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows the assembled structural element of one embodiment of this invention.
FIGS. 2A and 2B show a top view and a side view of one embodiment of the rib-receiving member.
FIG. 3 shows the structural details of the members of the structural element of one embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4 shows the assembled structural element of another embodiment of this invention.
FIG. 4A shows layers of the assembled structural element of the embodiment of FIG. 4.
FIGS. 5A and 5B show a structure formed by engaging a rib member with two rib-receiving members.
FIG. 6 shows a top view of a structure formed by engaging a rib member with four rib-receiving members.
 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Various embodiments of this invention are illustrated by reference to FIGS. 1–4 herein. FIG. 1 shows the assembled structural element of one embodiment of this invention. The composite structure comprises: a first member or face sheet 12 having an inner surface 4 and an outer surface 2; a rib-receiving member 5; a rib member 3 having a first end 34, a second end 32, a first edge 36 and a second edge 38. The first member may be, for example, a face sheet which is employed in an aerospace structure such as an aircraft wing or an internal aerospace structure such as a strut or the like. The first member may be fabricated from metal or a composite material, but is preferably fabricated from a composite material, as is further described herein. A second member (not shown) which is similar to the first member may receive second end 32 of rib member 3 by using a second rib-receiving member, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 5A and 5B. Rib-receiving member 5 comprises at least one cover sheet 16 which has an engagement opening therein for receiving first end 34 of rib member 3. Rib-receiving member 5 additionally comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements (shown as 22, 24, 26, and 28) also having engagement openings (e.g. grooves) therein for receiving first end 34 of rib member 3. The cover sheet or sheets and the elements of rib-receiving member 5 are preferably made from a composite material which is machinable. In another embodiment, the rib-receiving elements and cover sheets may also be fabricated from metal.
A plurality of anchoring elements 100 interconnect the rib-receiving elements. The anchoring elements 100 are preferably graphite pins known as Z-fibers™ or “Z-pins” available, for example, from Aztex, Inc., as will be understood by those skilled in the art.
In one preferred embodiment, the composite material which may be used for the rib-receiving elements, cover sheets and first member is an epoxy resin reinforced with graphite fibers. More preferably, but not necessarily, the composite material is fabricated from a toughened epoxy resin system such as 977-3 available from Cytec Fiberite and a high strength and modulus graphite fiber system such as IM-7 available from Hexcell. In addition, other composite materials which may be used include, but are not limited to, TORAYCA T700S-12K-PW/3900-2 fabric or TORAYCA T800H-/3900-2 tape (both available from Toray). These materials are particularly suitable for use because of their high structural strength and stiffness.
As depicted in FIG. 1, element 22 forms the base of the rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28, with rib-receiving elements 24, 26, and 28 stacked sequentially upon element 22. As shown in FIG. 1, the cover sheet 16 (and additional cover sheets, if employed) are shaped to permit stacking of the rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 under the cover sheet or sheets. As described further herein, second end 32 of rib member 3 may also engage another rib-receiving member (not shown in FIG. 1) which is integral to a second member or face sheet (not shown in FIG. 1). In addition, first edge 36 and second edge 38 may each also be engaged to other rib-receiving members (not shown in FIG. 1) which are in turn integral to third and fourth members or face sheets (not shown in FIG. 1).
To illustrate how the rib receiving member is constructed reference is now made to FIG. 2A. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, cover sheets 14 and 16 are raised over rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 of the rib-receiving members. It will be understood that the number of and sizes of such elements employed in this invention may vary, depending upon the particular use of the structural element. These elements each have about the same thickness but progressively decreasing width, as shown (i.e. element 22 is the widest element, and element 28 is the narrowest element). As discussed above, the rib-receiving elements may be adjoined to one another via adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means. As cover sheets 16 and 14 are raised over the elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 of the rib-receiving member, the cover sheets assume a shape which is approximately trapezoidal to minimize the spaces between cover sheet 14 and each of the elements. In this embodiment, element 22 forms the base of the rib-receiving member and resides on an optional base plate 13 which in turn resides on inner surface 4 of first member 12. The base plate 13 may also be fabricated from metal or a composite material.
In one particularly preferred embodiment of this invention, the rib-receiving elements, base plate, first member and cover sheet or sheets are all fabricated from a composite material, and the first member, rib-receiving elements and cover sheet or sheets are arranged as depicted, for example, in FIG. 2B and cocured to form the integrated combination of first member or face sheet 12 and rib-receiving member 5 (which in this embodiment is made up of base plate 13, rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 having opening 20 therein, and cover sheets 14 and 16 having opening 20 therein), as depicted in FIG. 2B. As referred to herein, “cocuring” means joining two or more uncured composite layers or components (e.g. two or more rib-receiving elements or a cover sheet to a rib-receiving member, etc.) in one cure cycle to form an integrated assembly. For the graphite fiber/epoxy systems described herein which may be employed in a preferred embodiment of this invention, curing temperatures are typically in the range of 250–350° F. and the autoclave pressure is in the range of 85–100 psi held for approximately 6–7 hours, with the vacuum bag and components therein at vacuum. In other embodiments of this invention, high temperature composite systems may be employed which typically require curing temperatures in the range of 500–700° F. and pressures of 200–300 psi. As will be well understood by those skilled in the art, cocuring is typically carried out by vacuum bagging the assembly of first member or face sheet 12 and rib-receiving member 5 and placing the assembly inside an autoclave where pressure and elevated temperatures are introduced. As will be well understood by those skilled in the art, the pressure and temperatures are increased incrementally in a prescribed manner to effect a curing of the rib-receiving member and first member or face sheet into an integrated assembly. Use of cocuring to form the integrated assembly of the first member, rib-receiving elements and cover sheet or sheets advantageously avoids the necessity and expense associated with assembly tooling, which would otherwise be necessary to properly align and adjoin the first member, rib-receiving elements and cover sheet or sheets.
In another embodiment, each of rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26 and 28 may be adjoined to one another via adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means. If an adhesive is employed, a paste adhesive such as EA 9394 available from Loctite Aerospace, FM 400 available from Cytec Fiberite or another suitable adhesive known to those skilled in the art may be used. Alternatively, rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26 and 28 may be assisted in their load carrying capability by the resistance provided by cover sheet 16. Cover sheet 16 (or additional cover sheets, if employed) may be adjoined to inner surface 4 of first member 12 via an adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means. Base plate 13 may also be affixed to inner surface 4 of first member 12 via an adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means. The upper surface 15 of base plate 13 may also be affixed to element 22 using an adhesive, mechanical interconnection or other suitable means.
The rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 of the rib receiving member and cover sheets 14 and 16 of the rib-receiving member may be made from a composite or other material which may be machined, formed or otherwise shaped. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 2B, an opening such as a groove 20 may be provided into the cover sheets 14 and 16 and into the rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28. The groove 20 is suitably shaped and dimensioned to engage rib member 3 (as shown in FIG. 1) by aligning rib member 3 with groove 20 and inserting rib member 3 into the groove to form the composite structure shown in FIG. 1. The groove-rib engagement provides structural support between the rib-receiving member 5 and rib member 3.
Groove 20 is sized and arranged to receive rib member 3. Preferably, a film adhesive, paste adhesive or other suitable adhesive is interposed between rib member 3 and groove 20 for adhering the exterior surface of rib member 3 to the rib-receiving member comprising groove 20. The rib member 3 and the integrated rib-receiving assembly 10 (which is the combination of first member or face sheet 12 and rib-receiving member 5) are preferably not cocured together, because such cocuring would require extensive curing and assembly tooling. The present invention advantageously reduces the necessity for such tooling, which is expensive and time-consuming to use. A solder or brazing material may also be used if the components are fabricated from metallic materials.
In one preferred embodiment, rib member 3 has a rectangular shaped cross-section and preferably has a width slightly smaller than the width of the groove 20 so that the rib may be inserted into the groove while at the same time enabling the rib member 3 to be in contact with the inner surfaces of the groove by means of a joining medium (i.e. adhesive, solder or brazing material). Preferably, the rib member and groove are arranged to form an enclosure which is approximately rectangular in shape.
Anchoring elements 100 which interconnect the rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 and first member 12 are also shown. As previously discussed, in the embodiment of this invention in which the rib-receiving elements are made of a composite material, the anchoring elements are preferably graphite pins.
Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which illustrates the structural details of the members of the structural element of one embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 3, rib member 3 comprises a plurality of rib elements 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, and 308, and each of the elements 22, 24, 26 and 28 of the rib-receiving member 5 comprise a plurality of layers. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, rib-receiving member elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 respectively comprise layers 221–228, 241–248, 261–268 and 281–288, as shown. The rib elements are preferably each fabricated from a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, although in other embodiments the rib elements may be fabricated from metal. If the rib elements are composite materials such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, joining of the rib elements may be achieved by curing the individual rib elements using the curing techniques previously described with respect to the cocuring of the first member or face sheet and rib-receiving member. The rib elements, if fabricated from a composite material, should be cured to form the rib member separately from the cocuring step previously described with respect to fabrication of the integrated first member or face sheet and the rib-receiving member. Separate curing of the rib member and the integrated assembly of the first member or face sheet and the rib-receiving member is advantageous in that it avoids costly and time-consuming alignment of the rib elements with the first member, rib-receiving elements and cover sheet, and the associated tooling required for such alignment. As shown in FIG. 3, element 22 resides on base plate 13, which in turn resides on the inner face 4 of member 12. In addition, cover sheet 14 resides in part on the inner face 4 of member 12, and cover sheet 14 also resides upon, in part, the upper face of base plate 13 and also contacts each of rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28, as shown. Cover sheet 16 resides in part on the inner face 4 of member 12. Cover sheet 16 also resides in part on the upper surface of cover sheet 14 as shown.
Anchoring elements 301 interconnect rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 of the rib-receiving member 5, thereby preventing peeling away of the elements of the rib-receiving member. The anchoring elements 301 do not extend into the cover plates 16 and 14.
The surfaces of all of the rib elements and rib-receiving elements are preferably smooth. The term smooth is intended to mean that the surfaces are substantially free of uneven regions which interfere with the bonding of the elements. For example, the outer surfaces of the rib-receiving elements 22, 24, 26, and 28 have no interlocking formations machined into them. However, small scale and microscopic unevenness, which is inherent in manufacturing and may even promote bonding are not excluded. Rib 3 is preferably affixed to the rib-receiving assembly using an adhesive as previously described. This advantageously avoids cocuring of the rib and rib-receiving assembly and thereby avoids the necessity for bagging and autoclave curing of the rib and rib-receiving assembly. This is advantageous because of the material and labor costs associated therewith. In this embodiment, the adhesives used may be cured at an oven temperature with moderate clamping pressure to the entire assembly. The assembly may then be ultrasonically inspected and X-rayed to ensure that proper bonding of the rib to the rib-receiving assembly is achieved.
Another embodiment of the composite structure is illustrated by referring to FIG. 4 herein. The embodiment of FIG. 4 comprises a first member or face sheet 40 which comprises an outer surface 41, an inner surface 43, and a plurality of layers 410–419 therebetween. Layers 410–419 are shown in greater detail in FIG. 4A. As previously discussed, in one preferred embodiment the layers 410–419 are a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, and layers 410–419 are joined together by curing.
The embodiment of FIG. 4 also comprises a rib-receiving member engaged to the inner surface 43 of the first member or face sheet 40. The rib-receiving member comprises a rib-receiving sleeve 48 (shown here as a substantially U-shaped element). The sleeve 48 has an open end for receiving the first end 64 of the rib member 6, which is shown as a single member in FIG. 4 and which may be made up of a plurality of rib elements as described above with respect to FIG. 3. The sleeve 48 also has a closed curved end 49. First and second sleeve support members 46 and 47 are disposed on each side of sleeve 48. The first and second sleeve support members comprise outer layers 461 and 471, respectively, and preferably one or more inner layers 462, 463, 472, and 473. In one preferred embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 4, a plurality of anchoring elements 501 interconnect individual layers 410–419 of the first member. The first member or face sheet, the rib-receiving sleeve and the first and second sleeve support members as well as the rib member may be made from a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described, which is penetrable by the anchoring elements 501.
The first and second sleeve support members 46 and 47, respectively comprising outer layers 461 and 471 and the inner layers 462, 463, 472, and 473, respectively are substantially symmetrically disposed on opposite sides of the substantially U-shaped rib-receiving sleeve 48. Inner layers 463 and 473 of the first and second sleeve support members contact the substantially U-shaped rib-receiving sleeve 48, as shown in FIG. 4.
Each of the substantially symmetrically disposed layers 461, 462, 463, 471, 472, and 473 is preferably formed by using a tool to provide curvature, as will be well understood by those skilled in the art. The rib-receiving sleeve 48 comprises substantially vertical ends 503 and 511. Preferably, the layers 461, 462, 463, 471, 472, and 473 also comprise substantially vertical ends. Preferably, ends 503 and 511 are situated at substantially the same vertical height as the substantially vertical ends of layers 461, 462, 463, 471, 472, and 473. In a preferred embodiment, first member or face sheet 40, sleeve support members 46 and 47, and rib-receiving sleeve 48 are cocured as previously described to form a rib-receiving assembly, where all of these individual components are made of a composite material such as the graphite fiber/epoxy resin system previously described.
In this embodiment of the invention, the curved portion 49 and the substantially vertical walls 50 and 51 define a substantially U-shaped groove. A rib member 6 which may be formed of a composite material or layers of a composite material is aligned with the substantially U-shaped groove. First end 64 of the rib member is inserted into the groove. Preferably, rib member 6 has a height greater than the depth of the groove, so that, as shown in FIG. 1, second end 62 of the rib member projects out of the rib-receiving member. The groove-rib engagement provides structural support between the rib-receiving member and the rib member 6. The groove of U-shaped sleeve 48 is sized and arranged to receive rib member 6. Preferably, a film adhesive, paste adhesive or other suitable adhesive may be interposed between rib member 6 and the groove for adhering the rib member 6 to the rib-receiving member comprising U-shaped sleeve 48.
In another embodiment of this invention, the rib member projects out from the rib-receiving member and may be used to engage another rib-receiving member to form a structure. FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate side views of this embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 5A, a first rib-receiving assembly 404 as described above with respect to any of FIGS. 1–4 and the description provided herein comprises a first member 412 and a rib-receiving member 405, and a second rib-receiving assembly 504 as described above with respect to any of FIGS. 1–4 and the description provided herein comprises a second member 512 and a rib-receiving member 505. In the embodiment of this invention depicted in FIGS. 5A and 5B, each rib-receiving member 405, 505 comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements (but not shown in detail in FIGS. 5A and 5B) as previously described, and each rib receiving member has machined or integrally formed grooves 40 and 50 therein, respectively. As shown in FIG. 5B, each of grooves 40 and 50 is aligned with a rib member 6 having ends 62 and 64 and edges 66 and 68. End 62 is inserted into groove 40 to form a structural element, in accordance with the illustrations in FIGS. 1–4. End 64 is then inserted into groove 50 to complete the structure.
Again referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in another embodiment of this invention rib ends 62 and 64 are engaged to first and second rib-receiving assemblies 404 and 504, respectively, as shown. Additionally, rib edge 66 may be engaged to a third rib-receiving assembly (not shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B) and rib edge 68 may be engaged to a fourth rib-receiving assembly (not shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B). The third and fourth rib-receiving assemblies have the structure of first and second rib-receiving assemblies 404 and 504. Such a design may be employed, for example, in an aircraft wing flap. FIG. 6 shows a forward view from point “A” in FIG. 5B of the embodiment of the structural element described herein in which rib ends 62 and 64 as well as rib edges 66 and 68 of rib 6 are engaged to rib receiving assemblies 404, 504, 604 and 704 in FIG. 6. More specifically, in FIG. 6, rib 6 has rib ends 62 and 64 and rib edges 66 and 68 (all shown as hidden edges). Rib end 62 engages rib receiving member 405 which is integral to first member or face sheet 412. Rib end 64 engages rib receiving member 505 which is integral to second member or face sheet 512. Rib edge 66 engages rib receiving member 605 which is integral to third member or face sheet 612. Rib edge 68 engages rib receiving member 705 which is integral to fourth member or face sheet 712. The rib-receiving assemblies 404, 504, 604, and 704 as depicted in FIG. 6 may be of the types depicted in any of FIGS. 1–5 described herein.
It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

Claims (26)

1. A structural element comprising:
(a) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
(b) a rib member having a first end and a second end;
(c) a first rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements wherein the rib-receiving elements are arranged step-wise relative to each other to form the first rib-receiving member, the rib-receiving elements having engagement openings therein for receiving the first end of the rib member, and a plurality of cover sheets, with each cover sheet located external to the first member such that each cover sheet projects from the inner surface of the first member, each cover sheet having an inner surface and an engagement opening therein for receiving the first end of the rib member, and wherein the rib-receiving elements are stacked under the cover sheets, and at least one rib-receiving element has an outer surface which is integral to the inner surface of at least one cover sheet; and
(d) at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the first rib-receiving member.
2. The structural element of claim 1, wherein an adhesive is interposed between the first end of the rib member and the openings of the first rib-receiving member.
3. The structural element of claim 1, wherein the second end of the rib member projects out from the first rib-receiving member.
4. The structural element of claim 1, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a plurality or rib-receiving elements which are adjoined to each other using an adhesive.
5. The structural element of claim 1, wherein each opening is a groove which comprises inner surfaces, and the rib member has a width smaller than the width of each groove and is in contact with the inner surfaces of each groove.
6. The structural element of claim 1, wherein each rib-receiving element is formed from a composite material.
7. The structural element of claim 6, wherein each rib-receiving element comprises a plurality of layers, and each layer is formed from a composite material.
8. The structural element of claim 1, wherein each rib-receiving element is formed from a metal.
9. The structural element of claim 1, wherein the rib member comprises a plurality of rib elements, and each rib element is formed from a composite material.
10. The structural element of claim 1, wherein the rib member comprises a plurality of rib elements, and each rib element is formed from a metal.
11. The structural element of claim 1, further comprising:
(e) a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
(f) a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second end of the rib member and a plurality of cover sheets having openings therein for receiving the second end of the rib member; and
(g) at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the second rib-receiving member.
12. The structural element of claim 11, wherein the rib member comprises first and second edges perpendicular to the first and second ends of the rib member, and the structural element further comprises:
(h) a third member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
(i) a third rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the third member, wherein the third rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the first edge of the rib member and a plurality of cover sheets having openings therein for receiving the first edge of the rib member;
(j) at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the third rib-receiving member;
(k) a fourth member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
(l) a fourth rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the fourth member, wherein the fourth rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements having openings therein for receiving the second edge of the rib member and a plurality of cover sheets having openings therein for receiving the second edge of the rib member; and
(m) at least one anchoring element interconnecting the rib-receiving elements of the fourth rib-receiving member.
13. The structural element of claim 1, wherein the rib-receiving elements are arranged perpendicular to the rib member.
14. A structural element comprising:
(a) a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
(b) a rib member having a first end and a second end; and
(c) a first rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the first member, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a first substantially U-shaped rib-receiving sleeve having an open first end for receiving the rib member and a closed second end which forms an apex, a first sleeve support member and a second sleeve support member, wherein the first and second sleeve support members are distinct from the first member, the first and second sleeve support members are each located on the inner surface of the first member on opposite sides of the first rib-receiving sleeve, the first and second sleeve support members each comprise a plurality of layers including an inner layer, the inner layers of the first and second sleeve support members each contact the first rib-receiving sleeve, and only the apex of the first rib-receiving sleeve contacts the inner surface of the first member.
15. The structural element of claim 14, wherein the first member comprises a plurality of layers, and at least one anchoring element interconnects the plurality of layers of the first member.
16. The structural element of claim 14, wherein an adhesive is interposed between the first rib-receiving sleeve and the rib member.
17. The structural element of claim 14, wherein the second end of the rib member projects out from the first rib-receiving member.
18. The structural element of claim 14, wherein the first rib-receiving member comprises a plurality of rib-receiving elements which are adjoined to each other using an adhesive.
19. The structural element of claim 14, wherein each opening is a groove which comprises inner surfaces, wherein the rib member has a width smaller than the width of each groove and is in contact with the inner surfaces of each groove.
20. The structural element of claim 14, wherein the first member, first rib-receiving sleeve and first and second sleeve support members are each formed from a composite material.
21. The structural element of claim 20, wherein the first member and first and second sleeve support members each comprise a plurality of layers, and each layer is formed from a composite material.
22. The structural element of claim 14, wherein the first member, rib-receiving sleeve and first and second sleeve support members are each formed from a metal.
23. The structural element of claim 14, wherein the first rib member comprises a plurality of rib elements, and each rib element is formed from a composite material.
24. The structural element of claim 14, wherein the first rib member comprises a plurality of rib elements, and each rib element is formed from a metal.
25. The structural element of claim 14, further comprising:
(d) a second member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
(e) a second rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the second member, wherein the second rib-receiving member comprises a second rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are each located on the inner surface of the second member on opposite sides of the second rib-receiving sleeve.
26. The structural element of claim 25, wherein the rib member comprises first and second edges perpendicular to the first and second ends of the rib member, and the structural element further comprises:
(f) a third member having an inner surface and an outer surface;
(g) a third rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the third member, wherein the third rib-receiving member comprises a third rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are each located on the inner surface of the third member and are disposed on opposite sides of the third rib-receiving sleeve;
(h) a fourth member having an inner surface and an outer surface; and
(i) a fourth rib-receiving member integral to the inner surface of the fourth member, wherein the fourth rib-receiving member comprises a fourth rib-receiving sleeve having an open end for receiving the rib member and a closed end, and two sleeve support members, wherein the sleeve support members are each located on the inner surface of the fourth member and are disposed on opposite sides of the fourth rib-receiving sleeve.
US10/154,178 2002-05-23 2002-05-23 Structural element with rib-receiving member Expired - Fee Related US7205066B1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/154,178 US7205066B1 (en) 2002-05-23 2002-05-23 Structural element with rib-receiving member
EP03252085A EP1365081B1 (en) 2002-05-23 2003-04-02 Structural element with rib-receiving member

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/154,178 US7205066B1 (en) 2002-05-23 2002-05-23 Structural element with rib-receiving member

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US7205066B1 true US7205066B1 (en) 2007-04-17

Family

ID=29400546

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/154,178 Expired - Fee Related US7205066B1 (en) 2002-05-23 2002-05-23 Structural element with rib-receiving member

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (1) US7205066B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1365081B1 (en)

Cited By (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060156662A1 (en) * 2004-12-01 2006-07-20 Airbus Deutschland Gmbh Structural element, method for manufacturing a structural element and use of a structural element for an aircraft hull
US20080087768A1 (en) * 2006-06-14 2008-04-17 Airbus Uk Limited Aircraft component
US20090114772A1 (en) * 2005-08-17 2009-05-07 Airbus Deutschland Gmbh Continuous fuselage connection
US20100135815A1 (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-06-03 General Electric Company Spar cap for wind turbine blades
US20100135818A1 (en) * 2009-12-01 2010-06-03 Achuthan Babu Systems and methods of assembling a rotor blade for use in a wind turbine
WO2010107756A1 (en) 2009-03-19 2010-09-23 R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Apparatus for inserting objects into a filter component of a smoking article, and associated method
US20110011980A1 (en) * 2008-01-30 2011-01-20 Stefan Tacke Connecting arrangement for joining two stiffening elements having different cross-sectional profiles for an aircraft or spacecraft, and shell component
EP2808156A1 (en) 2013-05-28 2014-12-03 Airbus Operations GmbH A shell segment of an aircraft and a production method
US8985515B2 (en) 2010-12-28 2015-03-24 Textron Innovations Inc. Multi-directional load joint system
WO2015049895A1 (en) * 2013-10-02 2015-04-09 三菱重工業株式会社 Joint, and aircraft structure
US20180126711A1 (en) * 2013-10-03 2018-05-10 The Boeing Company Pre-formed thermoplastic filler for thermoset structure
US10000050B2 (en) 2011-04-07 2018-06-19 Airbus Operations Gmbh Method for the manufacture of a fibre composite component, a reinforcement element and also a fibre composite component
US10104906B1 (en) 2012-09-17 2018-10-23 Tannpapier Gmbh Mouthpiece lining paper
US11008438B2 (en) * 2016-12-02 2021-05-18 Composite Technologies International, Llc Composition and method to form a composite core material
US11498656B1 (en) 2021-04-26 2022-11-15 Rohr, Inc. Airfoil system with embedded electric device
US11724792B2 (en) 2021-09-14 2023-08-15 Rohr, Inc. Composite airfoil for an aircraft

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014118368A2 (en) 2013-02-01 2014-08-07 Gea Food Solutions Bakel B.V. Food forming concept

Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4177306A (en) * 1976-05-19 1979-12-04 Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm Gesellschaft Mit Beschrankter Haftung Laminated sectional girder of fiber-reinforced materials
EP0227107A2 (en) 1985-12-27 1987-07-01 Sony Corporation Cassette type recording apparatus
US5273806A (en) 1991-10-03 1993-12-28 Lockshaw James J Structural element with interlocking ribbing
US5476704A (en) * 1992-07-01 1995-12-19 Hoac-Austria Flugzeugwerk Wr.Neustadt Gesellschaft M.B.H. Plastic-composite profiled girder, in particular a wing spar for aircraft and for wind-turbine rotors
US5487930A (en) 1991-10-03 1996-01-30 Tolo, Inc. Three structure structural element with interlocking ribbing
US5508085A (en) 1991-10-03 1996-04-16 Tolo, Inc. Structural elements made with cores of fiber-reinforced plastic
US5616376A (en) * 1991-10-03 1997-04-01 Lockshaw; James J. Reticulated structural element
US5633053A (en) 1991-10-03 1997-05-27 Lockshaw; James J. Structural element with intermediate ribbing support
US5688426A (en) * 1995-06-07 1997-11-18 The Boeing Company Hybrid metal webbed composite beam
US5849393A (en) 1997-04-17 1998-12-15 Mcdonnell Douglas Corporation Structural element and method of making
US6374570B1 (en) 2000-08-25 2002-04-23 Lockheed Martin Corporation Apparatus and method for joining dissimilar materials to form a structural support member
US6520706B1 (en) * 2000-08-25 2003-02-18 Lockheed Martin Corporation Composite material support structures with sinusoidal webs and method of fabricating same

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE2967605D1 (en) * 1979-04-16 1986-08-07 Grumman Aerospace Corp Method of fastening a composite sub-structure and structural assembly

Patent Citations (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4177306A (en) * 1976-05-19 1979-12-04 Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm Gesellschaft Mit Beschrankter Haftung Laminated sectional girder of fiber-reinforced materials
EP0227107A2 (en) 1985-12-27 1987-07-01 Sony Corporation Cassette type recording apparatus
US5633053A (en) 1991-10-03 1997-05-27 Lockshaw; James J. Structural element with intermediate ribbing support
US5273806A (en) 1991-10-03 1993-12-28 Lockshaw James J Structural element with interlocking ribbing
US5487930A (en) 1991-10-03 1996-01-30 Tolo, Inc. Three structure structural element with interlocking ribbing
US5508085A (en) 1991-10-03 1996-04-16 Tolo, Inc. Structural elements made with cores of fiber-reinforced plastic
US5616376A (en) * 1991-10-03 1997-04-01 Lockshaw; James J. Reticulated structural element
US5476704A (en) * 1992-07-01 1995-12-19 Hoac-Austria Flugzeugwerk Wr.Neustadt Gesellschaft M.B.H. Plastic-composite profiled girder, in particular a wing spar for aircraft and for wind-turbine rotors
US5580622A (en) 1993-12-27 1996-12-03 Tolo, Inc. Structural element with ribbing mechanically blocked against separation
US5688426A (en) * 1995-06-07 1997-11-18 The Boeing Company Hybrid metal webbed composite beam
US5849393A (en) 1997-04-17 1998-12-15 Mcdonnell Douglas Corporation Structural element and method of making
US6374570B1 (en) 2000-08-25 2002-04-23 Lockheed Martin Corporation Apparatus and method for joining dissimilar materials to form a structural support member
US6520706B1 (en) * 2000-08-25 2003-02-18 Lockheed Martin Corporation Composite material support structures with sinusoidal webs and method of fabricating same

Non-Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
"Composite Grid-Lock(R) Pre-Implementation Program" paper presented to U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory Flight Dynamics Directorate (Jan. 2001).
F-16 Horizontal Tail and Edges Sustainment dated Nov. 3, 2000.
U.S. Appl. No. 10/154,207, filed May 23, 2002, by John E. Meaney and David A. Peterson for "Structural Element With Rib-Receiving Member".

Cited By (32)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20060156662A1 (en) * 2004-12-01 2006-07-20 Airbus Deutschland Gmbh Structural element, method for manufacturing a structural element and use of a structural element for an aircraft hull
US7850118B2 (en) * 2004-12-01 2010-12-14 Airbus Deutschland Gmbh Structural element, method for manufacturing a structural element and use of a structural element for an aircraft hull
US20090114772A1 (en) * 2005-08-17 2009-05-07 Airbus Deutschland Gmbh Continuous fuselage connection
US7931234B2 (en) * 2005-08-17 2011-04-26 Airbus Deutschland Gmbh Continuous fuselage connection
US20080087768A1 (en) * 2006-06-14 2008-04-17 Airbus Uk Limited Aircraft component
US8276846B2 (en) * 2006-06-14 2012-10-02 Airbus Operations Limited Aircraft component
US8528865B2 (en) * 2008-01-30 2013-09-10 Airbus Operations Gmbh Connecting arrangement for joining two stiffening elements having different cross-sectional profiles for an aircraft or spacecraft, and shell component
US20110011980A1 (en) * 2008-01-30 2011-01-20 Stefan Tacke Connecting arrangement for joining two stiffening elements having different cross-sectional profiles for an aircraft or spacecraft, and shell component
US20100135815A1 (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-06-03 General Electric Company Spar cap for wind turbine blades
US7841835B2 (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-11-30 General Electric Company Spar cap for wind turbine blades
WO2010107756A1 (en) 2009-03-19 2010-09-23 R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Apparatus for inserting objects into a filter component of a smoking article, and associated method
US20100135818A1 (en) * 2009-12-01 2010-06-03 Achuthan Babu Systems and methods of assembling a rotor blade for use in a wind turbine
US8702397B2 (en) * 2009-12-01 2014-04-22 General Electric Company Systems and methods of assembling a rotor blade for use in a wind turbine
US9592901B2 (en) 2010-12-28 2017-03-14 Textron Innovations Inc. Multi-directional load joint system
US8985515B2 (en) 2010-12-28 2015-03-24 Textron Innovations Inc. Multi-directional load joint system
US10000050B2 (en) 2011-04-07 2018-06-19 Airbus Operations Gmbh Method for the manufacture of a fibre composite component, a reinforcement element and also a fibre composite component
US10104906B1 (en) 2012-09-17 2018-10-23 Tannpapier Gmbh Mouthpiece lining paper
US9637213B2 (en) 2013-05-28 2017-05-02 Airbus Operations Gmbh Shell segment of an aircraft and a production method
EP2808156A1 (en) 2013-05-28 2014-12-03 Airbus Operations GmbH A shell segment of an aircraft and a production method
US10071794B2 (en) 2013-10-02 2018-09-11 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Joint, and aircraft structure
RU2636373C2 (en) * 2013-10-02 2017-11-22 Мицубиси Хеви Индастрис, Лтд. Aircraft junction and structure
WO2015049895A1 (en) * 2013-10-02 2015-04-09 三菱重工業株式会社 Joint, and aircraft structure
CN105452679A (en) * 2013-10-02 2016-03-30 三菱重工业株式会社 Joint, and aircraft structure
JP2015072042A (en) * 2013-10-02 2015-04-16 三菱重工業株式会社 Joint and aircraft structure
CN105452679B (en) * 2013-10-02 2019-01-04 三菱重工业株式会社 Connector and aviation machine structure
EP3015721B1 (en) * 2013-10-02 2021-07-14 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Joint, and aircraft structure
US20180126711A1 (en) * 2013-10-03 2018-05-10 The Boeing Company Pre-formed thermoplastic filler for thermoset structure
US10875256B2 (en) * 2013-10-03 2020-12-29 The Boeing Company Method of making joint for structure
US11008438B2 (en) * 2016-12-02 2021-05-18 Composite Technologies International, Llc Composition and method to form a composite core material
US11760862B2 (en) 2016-12-02 2023-09-19 Composite Technologies International, Llc Composite panel
US11498656B1 (en) 2021-04-26 2022-11-15 Rohr, Inc. Airfoil system with embedded electric device
US11724792B2 (en) 2021-09-14 2023-08-15 Rohr, Inc. Composite airfoil for an aircraft

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1365081B1 (en) 2013-02-20
EP1365081A3 (en) 2004-12-15
EP1365081A2 (en) 2003-11-26

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7238409B1 (en) Structural element with rib-receiving member
US7205066B1 (en) Structural element with rib-receiving member
US8128028B2 (en) Internally stiffened composite panels and methods for their manufacture
EP0720529B1 (en) A complex composite sandwich structure having a laminate disposed therein and a method for making the same
US6110567A (en) Composite structural panel having a face sheet reinforced with a channel stiffener grid
RU2643678C2 (en) Stiffening element and bending element from laminated composite material, reinforced by inter-layer metal sheets
US7244487B2 (en) Apparatus, system, and method of joining structural components with a tapered tension bond joint
US6689246B2 (en) Method of making composite airfoil structures
CA1179823A (en) Support structure
US7510757B2 (en) Cellular composite grid-stiffened structure
US8104714B2 (en) Apparatuses and methods for joining composite members and other structural members in aircraft wing boxes and other structures
US8096504B2 (en) Integrated aircraft structure in composite material
EP2507050B1 (en) Sandwich structure having arrestment feature and method of making the same
EP2682340B1 (en) Joining composite fuselage sections along window belts
US5849393A (en) Structural element and method of making
US20140248462A1 (en) Stacked noodle for high capacity pull-off for a composite stringer
KR101033533B1 (en) Composite honeycomb sandwich panel equipped with composite-rail and aluminum i-shape side insert
JP2014111433A (en) Circumference splice for joining shell structures
JP6714363B2 (en) Apparatus or method for manufacturing a structure
JPH0239920A (en) Frame particularly for aircraft fugelage
US6117519A (en) Composite core material, composite material and method of assembly
EP2651759B1 (en) Skew-angle radius filler to reduce the risk of delamination of a laminated stringer assembly
EP2455625B1 (en) Composite sandwich shell edge joint
US20040213953A1 (en) Apparatus, system, and method of joining structural components with a tapered tension bond joint
KR100998210B1 (en) Sandwich pandel joint structure and jonitig method of sandwich panel

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: ROHR, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HAMMI, BASIL;REEL/FRAME:013270/0476

Effective date: 20020812

AS Assignment

Owner name: ROHR, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: CORRECTED RECORDATION FORM COVER SHEET TO ADD ASSIGNOR'S NAME, PREVIOULSY RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 013270/0476 (ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNOR'S INTEREST);ASSIGNORS:HAMMI, BASIL;HUBERT, CLAUDE;REEL/FRAME:013754/0923

Effective date: 20020812

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362

FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 20150417